The Geo-blocking regulation comes into force EU-wide on December 3rd, 2018. She prohibits discrimination of consumers based on their nationality or place of residence when shopping cross-border – online or offline.

Whenever a parcel has to be sent cross-border, the price for its delivery would increase significantly - regardless of the actual distance. Many Europeans therefore avoid shopping in another country. The EU wants to change that and created new rules for parcel delivery services.

While it becomes more and more common to book hotels and flights online, consumers are encountering a growing number of problems with online travel services. These services are now among the most frequent consumer complaints according to the European Consumer Centres.

ECC-Net report finds EU shoppers still face unjustified discrimination due to nationality and place of residence. Some traders use business practices such as geo-blocking to create artificial barriers and restrict consumers’ access to services.

From June 2017 on, there won't be any charges for roaming in the EU anymore. The Commission now presented a draft how this will work in detail. The "fair use policy" should prevent abusive or anomalous usage.

2016 offers a lot to sport fans: Only a few weeks after the UEFA EURO, the Summer Olympics are just about to start in Rio de Janeiro. ECC Austria collected important information and helpful tips for consumers who travel to Brazil.

The European Parliament today, Thursday, decided in favor of the controversial Passenger Name Record (PNR) Directive. At the same time, the data protection reform was enacted, with which the diverse regulations of the Member States should become unified standards.

Citizens of an EU Member State are automatically so called Union citizens as well. What does that mean? A current survey shows that many consumers know about this fact and also some of the attached rights - but not much of the details.

Within the EU, everything is moving - goods, services, people. At the same time, the trend in the world of work is moving towards more mobility. Many look for jobs not only in their own country, but want to make experiences abroad.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has decided that the USA are no "safe harbor" for personal data of EU citizen. With this ruling, the ECJ has withdrawn a decision of the EU Commission from 2000. It could have far-reaching consequences for internet companies.

A new EU Directive regulates that EU citizens in emergency situations can make use of consular protection worldwide. Even if their home country is not represented at their destination, they are entitled to equal treatment by diplomatic or consular authorities of other EU Member States.

The Network of European Consumer Centres (ECC-Net) is often contacted by consumers who purchased a defected product. Many of them don't know who they can contact or what they are entitled to. A study now shows that the traders themselves, consciously or unconsciously, contribute to that uncertainty.

After approval for the candidates of Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker from the European Parliament, the Commission was able to assume office on 1. November 2014. Some structural changes were set, which also affects consumer policies.

Over 1.2 million counterfeit products and 130 million cigarettes – this is the respectable record of a large scale operation of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) in cooperation with many international partners.

Social networks play a big role among young people. But many have to face the downside of this trend: Cyberbullying has gained sad popularity. The EU initiative Consumer Classroom provides free material for teachers who want to address this issue in their lessons.

The European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) developed an App to support consumers while travelling in Europe. In 25 languages, the mobile application helps in situations like lost baggage, delayed flights or return of damaged goods.

Many consumers are currently planning their summer vacation. What they should consider to avoid problems and what they can do in case of troubles – the European Commission summarized the most important facts.

For social interaction, as an information source or as a preparation for the job market - the internet and all its opportunities have become integral parts of the world, especially for the young generation. The initiative "Consumer Classroom" of the European Commission helps teachers who want to educate their students about risks and chances.

A comprehensive report shows all activities of the European Union in the past year. In 2013, according to Commission President Barroso, "we see that our efforts have started to pay off. For Europe, recovery is within sight."